A smart home is a residential home that utilizes network-connected devices (via internet) to allow the remote overseeing and management of systems and appliances, like security systems and lighting.
Smart home automation offers homeowners security, convenience, comfort, and energy efficiency by enabling them to manage smart devices, typically by downloading a smart home app on their phone or other network connected devices, like tablets.
Included in the internet of things (IoT), smart home systems and devices usually operate in unison, sharing homeowner usage data between themselves and automating operations based on the preference of the homeowner.
Smart Home Automation How Does It Work?
A smart home is not a bunch of different smart devices and appliances, but instead ones that work in unison to create a remotely managed network.
Every device — from lights, HVAC systems, security systems and appliances — is managed by a master home automation controller, usually known as a smart home hub. The hub is a hardwired apparatus that is the center point of the smart home system and can perceive, process information and wirelessly communicate. It merges all the different apps into one smart home app that homeowners can manage remotely. Instances of a smart home hub comprise of Google Home, Amazon Echo, and lesser-known Wink Hub. Whereas smart home products utilize Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for connecting to the smart home network, others are reliant on wireless protocols like Z-Wave or Zigbee.
Smart home devices can be programmed to adhere to specific schedules or orders, or they can be set for responding to voice commands through home assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. For instance, a smart thermostat can learn the homeowner’s routines and automatically turn the temperature up or down based on the homeowner’s specific schedule.
Instances Of Smart Home Technology
Just about every aspect of life in which technology has come into the domestic space — including dishwasher’s, lightbulbs, and other appliances — has seen the introduction of smart home alternatives:
Smart TVs
These TVs link to the internet for accessing content through applications, like VOD and music. Many smart TVs also include voice or gesture awareness.
Smart Lighting Systems
As well as being able to be remotely controlled and customizable, smart lighting systems can identify when occupants come in the room and adjust lighting as required. Smart light bulbs can also adjust themselves on a daylight availability basis.
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats, like Google Nest, come with linked Wi-Fi, allowing users to schedule, oversee and remotely control their home temperatures. These devices also learn homeowners’ routines and automatically adjust settings to give them utmost comfort and efficiency. Smart thermostats also can report energy uses and remind users to change-out filters.
Smart Door Locks and Smart Garage Door Openers
Users can utilize smart locks and smart garage-door openers to allow or refuse access to guests. Smart locks also can identify when residents are close and unlock the doors allowing them in.
Smart Security Cameras and Systems
Having smart security cameras and smart doorbells, like Ring, residents can oversee their homes when they are not there. Smart motion detectors can identify the distinction between residents, guests, pets and intruders and can send a notification to the proper authorities if shady behavior is detected.
Smart Family Pet and Smart Landscape Care
Family pet care can be programmed with interconnected feeders. Houseplants and landscapes can be watered using interconnected smart timers.
Smart Kitchen Appliances
Name brands like Samsung, LG, and GE offer smart kitchen appliances of all kinds. These appliances can comprise smart coffee makers that can brew a fresh cup automatically at a pre-programmed time; smart refrigerators that monitor expiration dates, create shopping lists or even devise recipes based on ingredients presently on hand; slow cookers and toaster ovens; and, in the washroom, washing machines and clothes dryers.
Smart House Monitors
Smart house system monitors can, for instance, detect a power surge and turn off electrical devices, detect water malfunctions or freezing of pipes and turn off the water so the home doesn’t get flooded.
Smart outlets. These connect to electrical sockets to alter everyday home devices, like living room lamps and ceiling fans, so they can be controlled wirelessly using mobile apps and voice assistants like Alexa.
MK Design And Build In Arizona
MK Design And Build, located in Mesa, Arizona, specializes in residential construction, providing clients with state-of-the-art technology combined with cost-effective building methods. MK offers a variety of styles and designs for you to use as a starting point in your home building journey. With an extensive library of existing plans to choose from, we’ve organized them into 4 Series to facilitate the shopping experience: Classic, Vintage, Contemporary and Craftsman. Contact MK Design and Build right here!